Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 20
20
Rejected
The Thistle's operational status remains precarious without UK Government approval or legislation.
Conclusion
Without the UK Government’s approval or a change in legislation, The Thistle and potential other Safer Drug Consumption Facilities could, theoretically, continue to operate in Scotland indefinitely but this is not a desirable situation as their status would be precarious and uncertain. (Conclusion, Paragraph 137)
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges devolved responsibilities but reiterates its stance of having no plans to amend the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 to enable DCRs, thus maintaining the 'precarious and uncertain' status highlighted by the committee.
Government Response
Rejected
HM Government
Rejected
Response: The UK fully recognises the Scottish Government’s need to tackle drug misuse in areas where responsibility is devolved, including healthcare, criminal justice, housing, and education. The legislative framework for drugs works as intended, enabling harmful substances to be controlled whilst ensuring access for those with legitimate reasons including researchers, pharmaceutical companies, clinicians and patients in receipt of valid prescriptions. The Government has been clear that it has no plans to amend the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 to enable the operation of DCRs in any part of the United Kingdom. The Thistle is subject to an independent evaluation, and we will welcome any evidence that emerges as part of that following the three-year pilot.